Often there are multiple reports of gloom and doom about connections at Heathrow. I have just had a very easy and quick experience.
5 minute walk from my gate to the flight connections bus to switch to terminal 3. 5 minute wait for bus. 8 minute ride to terminal 3 . 10 minutes to get through security and into terminal waiting area.
Now I realize it isn’t always this smooth, but I wanted to point out that Heathrow transfers are not necessarily difficult and long every time.
I recently had a great connection experience at Heathrow Airport. Despite its size, everything was clearly signposted, and airport staff were helpful at every turn. I had a 2-hour layover between Terminal 5 and Terminal 3, and the shuttle was quick and easy to find. Security moved efficiently, and there were plenty of dining options and lounges to relax in before my next flight. Overall, the process was smooth, well-organized, and stress-free—one of my better international transfer experiences!
I also did a connection last month. Even with the added step of UK immigration (egates) since I was connecting to a UK domestic flight, it was easy and quick. (T3 to T5)
The only downside was the BA lounge. Overcrowded as usual.
I wonder how many travelers who complain about Heathrow do so after trying to self-transfer rather than use Flight Connections?
Carol, I had the same experience this past April transferring between Terminals 5 and 3 and, also, in September 2023. No issues at all.
I wouldn't go out my way to avoid Heathrow.
Carol, I am glad you posted this!
I was going to post about my close connection experience (Landed at 6:25 a.m. and had a separate NOT connecting flight to Newcastle that departed at 8:50 a.m.) and I was obsessed that I may not make it before we even left the states. We not only made it (even going back through Heathrow security and having every one of our 4 bags pulled and inspected) but we had 45 mins to spare and then our flight was delayed 20 minutes. When we got to the security check, they immediately yelled "DO NOT REMOVE YOUR LIQUIDS BAGS" so we left them in the luggage. Every bag that had a liquids baggie was searched and the liquids inside were tested/swabbed. That took the most amount of time aside from the hike from the gate (we were at the furthest gate both flights! ha!) and we thought it was easier to navigate than DFW would be for newcomers. I know DFW airport in Dallas because I fly out of it often but a newcomer may not. Heathrow is so well marked and they have someone at every turn to ask questions of or that is shouting out directions as you approach them.
